Baccalaureate organizers respond

The Woodinville Baccalaureate Committee would like to clarify a concern raised in regard to a recent letter published in the Woodinville Weekly about our upcoming Baccalaureate Service for the graduating seniors.
As correctly stated in the letter, the Baccalaureate Service is not sponsored, nor is it supported in any way, by Woodinville High School.
The Woodinville Baccalaureate Committee was formed to provide an inspirational, interdenominational Christian service which reflects the Christian beliefs (as stated in our Statement of Faith) many of our seniors have demonstrated in their lives.
All graduating seniors, their families, teachers, and community are invited to attend this Christian celebration service which will provide hope and encouragement for the challenges the graduates will be facing.
In addition, Woodinville Baccalaureate Committee is a nonprofit tax-exempt corporation recognized under 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code and was issued a Certificate of Incorporation on May 3, 1994. Therefore, any donations received from individuals or the community businesses will be tax deductible and a receipt will be sent.
Our letter was not addressed to the editor of the Woodinville Weekly, and it was not our intent that this letter be published to solicit for additional funds. No one from our committee gave their permission for this letter to be published. We have always mailed our letters specifically to area business owners who have been supportive of our students and families.
We would also like to clarify that any participation from students or faculty from Woodinville High School, whether they are performing in the choir or band, speak or serve in any capacity, is strictly voluntary.
On April 29th, a letter from Carol A. Bogue was published which contained erroneous information. Ms. Bogue did not contact either committee chair to confirm the information she gathered. We are greatly saddened that our intentions to provide a service for the class of '96 have been so wrongly interpreted and sincerely apologize for any misunderstanding that may have taken place.
It is not our desire to debate our goals and intentions, but rather invite any who might question them to join us as we celebrate our Lord at this special service. If you have given a donation and feel you would like a refund, please feel free to contact us.